Get Winter Strong – COVID and flu vaccinations – UPDATED

28 September 2023

In winter, flu and COVID-19 spread more easily as we spend more time indoors.

For some, flu and COVID-19 are unpleasant. But for many, particularly those with certain health conditions, older people and pregnant women, they can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

Immunity from previous flu and COVID-19 vaccines fades, and the viruses change over time. You can top up your protection even if you’ve had flu or COVID-19 infection or you have been vaccinated before.

Vaccines are our best protection against flu and COVID-19. Over the last few years, they have kept tens of thousands of people out of hospital and helped to save countless lives. If you are a paid or unpaid carer, seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations can protect you and those you care for.

I am a carer but have never had a COVID-19 vaccination

If you have never been vaccinated before, or if you only had one dose, you can still get your seasonal vaccination. You only need one COVID-19 vaccination during the seasonal period.

How do I get my COVID-19 and flu vaccinations?

You may be invited by the NHS to get your free winter vaccines through the NHS App, text, email or letter.

You can book using the NHS App or online at Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment – NHS

You can find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site at Find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site – NHS

You can book through a local NHS service, such as a your GP surgery

To get your flu vaccination, you can contact your GP practice or find your nearest pharmacy at Find a pharmacy that offers the NHS flu vaccine

Most people can get both vaccines at the same time to get protected against both viruses. If this is not possible, it is better to get each vaccine as soon as you can rather than waiting.